17 October 2011

An Inspiring Tale and Pillows, Too!

The view of the Pacific Ocean outside of Todd Mossman’s house in Montecito.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll repeat it now, blogging introduces you to so many interesting people whom you would never meet otherwise, without this unique internet connection. I get lots of emails – some ask for decorating advice or for resources from a particular story. Some emails complain about how long the blog takes to load (I know, I know – it’s that darn Lijit ad that slows it all down!!) while other emails tell how a particular story meant something special to them. Those are the ones I love the most – when something I’ve written has triggered a good memory for a reader. Recently I got an email from a designer who makes pillows using antique textiles. I had written about Fortuny fabrics and my header has Fortuny fabric on it, so the designer wanted to show me his pillows that were made out of that same, gorgeous Italian fabric.

As we sent emails back and forth, the designer, Todd Mossman, sent me more pictures of his pillows. While I loved seeing the pillows, I was even more captivated by his house. Naturally. His house is atmospheric – it is Mediterranean - Californian style - and it overlooks the tree filled hills of Montecito, California that terrace down to the Pacific Ocean. At my request, Todd sent me more images of his house – showing all his favorite vignettes. I thought – how lucky is he to live in such a beautiful place, surrounded by such gorgeous views? So very, very lucky. Todd agreed he was indeed one lucky man – and as he told me his story I had to agree. I was stunned by what he wrote, thinking how far he had come and high he landed – all because of his determination, strength of character and hard work.

I know design blogs are frivolous – mostly we look at pretty pictures of houses owned by the upper classes of society. Rarely do we discuss those whose lives haven’t been perfect or those who have toiled hard to get where they are, against insurmountable odds. Todd is one of those people who wasn’t handed a silver spoon – everything he has he is grateful for and everything he has, he worked hard for. He knows what it took to get him where he is today. I hope you will be as inspired by his story as I am.

Todd is still young, today at 45, he tells how life turned sour for him in Dallas, Texas. Before landing in Montecito, Todd lived in Dallas where he fell victim to the times and became homeless. At the same time, he became ill with colon cancer and ended up living on a bench in Lee Park. If it sounds scary, Todd assures that it was very scary. Before he became homeless, he didn’t work in the design field though that is what he feels he was destined to do. Instead, he let his fears hold him back and he believe the stress of not working in his desired field and being homeless led to his illness. Eventually he found shelter in the back room of an old barber shop. His living space didn’t even have a proper floor – he slept on the hard, wooden sub floor. While homeless, he knew the only way out for him was to use his talent. Like all designers, he was blessed to have been born with a discriminating eye. His degree, though, came from the streets of Dallas.

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The stunning view of the Pacific and the Channel Islands from Todd’s house.

While living in the barber shop, he taught himself to sew using scraps of fabric he found in an upholsterer’s dumpster. He taught himself how to faux finish walls by digging through the art supplies company’s trash bin. He cleaned toilets at the large Design District, hoping to learn the finer points of the antique trade. He did what he had to do to hone his craft – and despite being homeless and working as a janitor – he says he had the best time learning all that he did. He made his “miserable little existence” into the best possible life that he could because he knew it would only be temporary.

Todd says he always knew that he would end up where he is today. He didn’t know how he was going to make it happen, he only knew that it would because he began to believe it and he began to believe in himself. He states that all his best and funniest memories come from that period in his life, when he was foraging through dumpsters and teaching himself the tools he needed to succeed in the design business. “It was such an adventure. I learned so much from the experience.” Instead of wallowing in his bad fortune, he looks back on that time as a positive. His enthusiasm for life is infectious. He made it by dreaming big. Todd says that dreaming and wishing can be very powerful tools.

You could get spoiled with views like this!

Over time, Todd began selling his pillows at The Mews, an upscale shop in Dallas’ Design District. Several of the more well known designers bought his Fortuny and antique tapestry pillows. Slowly, he started doing design – interior and landscape – and eventually he moved to Montecito, California where he now lives in a house that doubles as his studio. The irony is that he instead of living on a park bench, he now has Oprah as nearby neighbor.

Todd has a message for us all. Starting out, he was too scared to do what he believes he was born to do. Once he ended up homeless, he knew he had to start all over and this time, he would become a designer despite his lack of formal training. He had to work hard to make it to where he is today and he says “I think that there are probably some talented people that read Cote de Texas that are too afraid of all of the ''what ifs'' to really make it happen for themselves. Maybe if those readers see that if I can go from living on a park bench to this, it could give them a boost in their own lives. I just sew pillows and fluff people's homes but I think there is a nice message in that too.”

Todd has another message he wants to spread. “If you have an idea that is gnawing at you, do it! Try it out! Allow yourself the chance to try. Once I allowed myself that chance, the pieces of the puzzle just kept coming and falling into place.” He also acknowledges angels that helped him along the way. They helped him to see his self worth and talents – without them “I would have crumbled to nothing a long time ago.”

One lucky break came in the form of the house that he rents. Todd says this house is the first he has ever lived in that he loved – it is perfect for him and it is as if it was designed just for him. The house is new, a 2 bedroom guest house located on the property of a 1930s estate. The house is a beauty, with stucco walls, steel doors, beamed ceilings, and terra cotta floors. Inside it is furnished entirely by what Todd has either thrifted, found in a dumpster, or been given by a client. It shows that no matter the budget, you can still have unique interiors. But Todd laughs, you do have to cough it up to have this view of the Pacific – “there’s no thrifting the view.”

The dining room is located off the terrace. Todd set up his pillows around the Spanish styled table. Beautiful room, beautiful lantern. This is the picture that made me forget the pillows and fixate on the house!!!

Another view of the dining room with its changing tablescapes. I love how Todd uses small trees to decorate inside.

The living room has windows on two sides and a wonderful fireplace with flanking small casements. Antique capitals double as tables. The rich persimmon velvets remind me of John Saladino’s aesthetic.

A metal, leafy candelabra hangs from the wooden beamed ceiling.

An arched doorway leads past a wooden cabinet that doubles as a bar and art gallery. I love the pair of lamps with their fabric shades.

Styled as if for a photoshoot! Instead of pricey antiques, water bottles make a great, thrifty alternative.

The sun pours through this large window, styled with two small trees and art work. Notice the porch ceiling through the window.

Another view of large brick layer styled console.

The opposite side of the living room has a door leading outside. Wooden eagles sit atop pedestals.

An antique English wood chair is covered in thread bare velvet and leather.

Love the casement windows. So charming.

You can tell Todd admires Saladino – by the way he’s styled his house – and this book is another clue.

Love the view outside the windows.

Todd’s bedroom has a charming French bed which he decorates with his pillows. The terrace is reached through the French doors.

I love the bed – I think it’s really beautiful.

A different textile on the bed. Notice the beautiful landscaping outside the bedroom.

I hope you’ve been inspired by Todd’s story. It amazes me to think about his long journey finding himself first in order to become an interior and landscape designer. The moral of the story is – don’t give up on your dreams, make them happen!!!

As Todd says “I've had such an interesting life so far, and it's still so early in the picture...”

The pillows are available at the antiques shop Maison K on Coast Village Road, Montecito California

Hi! I was still going over + enjoying the packed-with-images, very interesting air-stream post tonight. There was so much there,that I wanted to go over it again. And how nice to have another wonderful post when I was done. This one is such a dream! Fortuny, Scalamandre, in plentiful supply -- in the fabulous location of Montecito! In that lovely, peaceful house! Wow. Gorgeous. Todd's story is the traditional American Dream and I am so glad he shared his story with you, and therefore with me!~Valerie

This is a wonderful story. I am happy for Todd that he was able to change his circumstances so dramatically. His pillows are gorgeous!! I will definitely be stopping by "Maison K" (one of THE most beautiful shops in Montecito) to see them!

II am just blown away, reading about his life and journey to get where he is now gave me chills. And I don't know what I am more in love with, his story, his home or his pillows!! So much beauty all in one place. He is obviously a very special person with a good and deep believing soul to have gotten where he is, he deserves the successes he has been given. I love seeing a happy ending to an otherwise very sad story. He is truly gifted and as you said has an eye for beauty. I love that he said if something is gnawing at you, just do it....he is SO right. Why live with regrets? (Now if only I would practice what I preach)!

Great story, great house! I saw so many pieces in the house that were to die for, the corner cabinet in the bedroom, the eagles on pedestals. Why aren't my thrift stores like this!?Actually I am very happy for this very talented man.

I kept looking at Todd’s name and asking myself why I know his name and then it dawned on me that I know him from ebay because he had purchased several things from me at one time. I knew he was a pillow maker like myself so it’s wonderful to get to see his work. I’m blown totally away by his story and how he pulled himself up and now lives in a home with spectacular views. What a wonderful and inspiring story you should be very proud of yourself Todd.

Wow.... stunning home!! What a wonderful story & home! LOVE to hear about people who truly appreciate what they have & were not given it so easily. Todd has true talent... wish he was closer to have him help style my house!Kat

Inspiring tale is an understatement in this case. His story is so touching and it makes us believe that true talent will eventually shine no matter what. What an impeccable eye he has, every room more gorgeous than the next, each artifact carefully selected and placed. It's hard to imagine that most of them were thrifted or donated! And the pillows! Just breathtaking.

Joni, I have been reading your blog for years, and I think this is probably my favorite post you've ever done. I am speechless. Not only is Todd's home gorgeous, but his story is just the most inspirational one I think I've ever heard. He is my new hero because it took great fortitude to endure such a journey and to persevere to see his dreams come to fruition. Bravo for Todd!

You had me with the first blue pillow I saw in a group of three. It looked like it had cherub faces on it. Stunning! And so were all the others, and I could definitely see a Saladino influence in Todd's home. He has the gift.

Thank you and Todd both for sharing this story with us. It certainly made my day, and I hope it inspires someone to take that step and follow their dreams. It's so important to do what you love to do.

The human spirit and determination -thoughts that came to my mind as I read Todd's story. What an incredible story. And the home, the pillows - gorgeous. Totally love the Fortuny pillows - need one, need one!! Beth

Fabulous and inspiring post! You are right, you have indeed met a very interesting person! I think it is fascinating that when a person is really thinking outside the box, two things happen with other people. (1) Some people will go to great effort to try to destroy this effort. (2) Others will laud this kind of dreaming and contribute in significant ways, just as the "angels" you have mentioned in the story. I hope I will always choose to be the kind that is an encourager of other dreamers, and to remember that I certainly have benefitted from mentors and encouragers, just as Todd has. Bravo Todd! Keep it up. You are an inspiration to many and the world is a better place because of you!

Fabulous and inspiring post! You are right, you have indeed met a very interesting person! I think it is fascinating that when a person is really thinking outside the box, two things happen with other people. (1) Some people will go to great effort to try to destroy this effort. (2) Others will laud this kind of dreaming and contribute in significant ways, just as the "angels" you have mentioned in the story. I hope I will always choose to be the kind that is an encourager of other dreamers, and to remember that I certainly have benefitted from mentors and encouragers, just as Todd has. Bravo Todd! Keep it up. You are an inspiration to many and the world is a better place because of you!

I am in love!! I am totally blown away by his story, his decorating style, his pillows and his message. When we lived in Dallas we would "window" shop the Mews often for inspiration (it was expensive, but looking was free;), and I'm sure I saw his pillows in Elaine's stall (?) So, it was probably from him that I was able to study and learn about antique tapestries and now own some of my own. I love all the 'ties that bind stories' that come from blogging!

Todd's message is a gift.

Thank you for sharing this amazing story Joni! And, bravo to Todd for being so brave and following his heart.joan

Thanks, Joni & Todd for sharing such an inspirational journey. My favorite vignette is the Santo head and stack of books on the velvet and leather chair. I love that photo! The book "The Divine Home" is one of my all time favorites. xoxo

What a beautiful, talented individual. I wish Todd well for the future as he has endured great odds & obstacles to get where he is today. Truly, the human spirit triumphed over adversity. Thanks Joni you always have something inspiring to share.

What an inspiring story! Thanks for posting this, and especially to Todd for being brave enough to share his story. His pillows and home are gorgeous. Many of us reading design blogs often feel that we're on the outside looking in, knowing we don't have nearly the means to afford the beauty we admire. Todd is an example of allowing the gift of beauty to guide him to the life of his dreams despite his lack of means. This ties in perfectly with Oprah's Lifeclass last night on OWN about finding your calling. Perfect timing.

Joni, What an amazing story and a true rags to riches story. Todd's home is beautiful and I love his pillows. On a recent visit to Venice we stayed in a hotel next door to the Fortuny showroom. It was not open during our stay but each day I would linger in front of the window display until my husband pulled me away. Hugs,Sherry

His style and taste are spectacular!!! I love the Fortuny pillows and olive trees, views, tile floors and beamed ceilings....feels so Californian, yet international. Very fine job. Have to get to Montecito!

Joni thank you so much for sharing Todd's story. It is truly inspiring. He must be a very strong person to have risen above such adversity. He is very talented and seems to have a God given talent that he is "NOW" able to share with others. I loved this post and Thank you to Todd for sharing his talents with us, Kathysue

Todd's story is so inspiring!!! It was just what I needed to hear too. There is something I have wanted to launch for a year or more now but fear of failure has kept me from it. His story gave me the HUGE nudge I needed. I am going for it!

JoniThis is one of your best posts! What a wonderful attitude Todd has. Such an inspiring story. I worked in the design field for over 20 years and I know how challenging it can be. Thanks so much.Marion

What a wonderful post! His inspirational story, and seeing his beautiful creations make me realize that the human spirit is amazing. I will have to drive over to Montecito to see his pillows in person soon.

Joni, thank you so much for sharing this with us. i am just blown away by Todd's story and his amazing ability to pull together a home that is at once simple but also incredibly tasteful. Not to mention it feels like one of the most real and fresh spaces I have seen in a long time. I feel hugely invigorated and ready to tackle my own home. Todd makes it feel very attainable. THANK YOU.

Joni, thanks for such an inspiring post. Todd is living the American dream and encouragement to all of us, at any age, to dream big dreams and go after them. I too have wandered The Mew for many years and probably have seen his pillows as I've developed such a love for vintage textiles and love Fortuny. His pillows and his house are absolutely gorgeous. What a beautiful place to live and dream bigger dreams. I keep many of your posts and this one will be one of them. Thanks.

YAY for Todd!!! What an amazing wonderful inspiring story. Wow, i am so happy for him. I love the way he had a vision and believed it, and it came true... and that he said angels helped him through it all. His pillows and home are absolutely incredible too!

Congratulations Todd for creating such a lovely living space and such beautifully tailored pillows. Your hard work and your dreams came together and your story written here today will help to inspire many.

thank you todd for sharing your story with joni and thank you joni for sharing with us. i have written down many of his inspirational lines/advice. this story arrives with perfect timing, as someone v dear to me is fighting his way back into society. much love to you both.

Wow, what a great attitude Todd seems to have about the good and the great parts of his life. I am positive I would not have been able to push myself forward in the same circumstances.I only wish him the best from this day forward.

JOni, I sent this post to my son because I knew he would love this story. Todd's story reminds me of my son in that he is doing just what Todd said: living his dream and doing what he LOVES (Interior Design). He left everything here in Pa. and went to Fl. where he knew noone but just had to follow his heart. I am very proud of him. Thanks for this wonderful, inspiring story! XO, Pinky

Joni, I cannot thank you and Todd enough for sharing such an inspiring story. I am one of the people out there who have a dream and yet couldn’t give it a chance because of all of the “what-ifs” I had. Today, I was seeking for a sign or guidance to see if I should go ahead with the idea I have been mulling over the past few days. At the bottom of my heart, I knew this idea would work, but again, I was agonizing over all the “what-ifs” and started to have a doubt. After reading Todd’s story, I know I must go ahead and give it a try. I am an aspiring children’s book author and I know I can make my dream come true. Thank you Joni, again, for all the beautiful things you share with us!!Yuko

Joni, you are the best! Thanks to you and Todd for sharing this inspirational story of his journey. The pillows, the house with the sunshine and views - especially of the ocean and islands - are all so beautiful. It must be like living at heaven’s door. I hope Todd’s life will continue to be filled with success and happiness.Jan

Wow -- this is a wonderful inspirational story for all of us. Grumbling about the economy is coming from everywhere; I hear so much pessimism right now. This man's story is proof that we make our own luck in this world, and that those who sit around complaining about all the reasons why success is impossible will always be interrupted by people like Todd who just roll up their sleeves and find a way to do it anyway.

Thanks Joni for sharing Todd's story. Thank-you Todd for sharing with Joni to share with us!You have such a gift, I'm so happy for you to be right where you are.I can relate...I have been trying to figure out which way to turn, and you have just told me!You must be MY Angel!I have lost everything in the last 3-4 years due to the economy. My husband and I are real estate agents. We lost all of our fancy cars,boat, million dollar plus home. Sometimes we barely have enough for groceries, and have no health insurance.I have come to realize what is, and what is not important.I am trying desperately to find a job, but I am not qualified to do any thing else. Employers would rather hire fresh out of college kids.But, I am creative. My passion is interior design, I also sew pillows, and repurpose cast offs, and love to thrift!Your message was clear, I will follow my heart, I will be a success doing what I love!Thank you!

Thank you, Todd. Your message was exactly what I've felt in my heart for too long and you have given me the courage to follow my dreams. Thank you, Joni, for sharing such beautiful pictures. Your posts are a welcome escape!

I've been reading your blog for several years now. I used to be able to read it daily, but have to save most of my blog reading for the weekends now. And I agree with you that sometimes the blogs are mostly fluff, but very lovely fluff that I enjoy reading.

But I have to tell you that this story moved me to tears today. I can somewhat relate to Todd's story. I too was homeless for a short time with my daughter. It isn't something you like to talk about or remember. But sometimes it helps to remember where you came from and how it has made yeou stronger and got you where you are. Todd's story really hit home and made me realize that even though I still am not exactly in my dream career, I am thankful for the hard times taht I went through back then that now make me even more thankful for the good things in my life now. And like Todd, thankful for those special angels in our lives that helped hold us together when everything else seemed to be falling apart.

Okay, didn't mean to be a Debbie Downer here on your blog. Todd's story is really uplifting and his work is beautiful as his is home. He is living where I have always wanted to live -- beautiful California! And I may have to contact him about those gorgeous red and blue pillows. They are calling my name!

Thanks again, Joni, for always giving us the best on your wonderful blog!

Just wanted to let everyone know that you all have been "snowed" by Todd's sob story. Todd has only gotten ahead by stealing clients, destroying other people's reputations for the advancement of his, lied about commissisons, lied about his past etc. Do not believe one bit of his "story." He is sitting back reading your sweet comments and laughing at you for believing him.